Understanding and predicting beach morphological change processes associated with the erosion of cohesive foreshores
This project identified current knowledge about managing shore platforms that include stable layers, such as mud or clay, as well as further research required.
Documents
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Details
Background
Many stretches of shore platforms in the UK are made up of sand and gravel lying on top of more stable materials such as mud or clay. Shore platform is the strip at the bottom of cliffs formed by erosion. They play an important role in controlling the wider coastal system, including how beaches are formed. However, they often lie along the shorelines that are eroding most rapidly, which can create significant problems when managing the coastline.
Approach
This project examined the way in which these shore platforms erode and how this affects the amount of sediment removed or deposited on that stretch of coastline. This was used to provide initial advice on managing these coastlines, as well as identifying gaps in understanding. Research was designed to fill these gaps and provide more detailed guidance.
Outcome
The main output of the project is a scoping report reviewing previous research in the field and providing preliminary advice. It’ll be useful for a wide-ranging audience, but primarily for coastal managers.
The project started in 2003 and was completed in 2004 at a cost of £29,776.